TOMS RIVER – The Ocean County Justice Complex was closed to the public on Jan. 8 after a sprinkler pipe that froze broke causing flooding in portions of the building.

"The building was closed while the cleanup was underway," said Ocean County Administrator Carl W. Block.

The sprinkler pipe located in the outside overhang in the building's outside atrium area apparently froze as a result of the ongoing frigid temperatures. As it thawed it broke and began to leak a substantial amount of water. The water was immediately shutoff as the leak was being isolated.

The complex, which houses the Ocean County Sheriff's Department and a number of courtrooms and Superior Court functions, was evacuated after the fire alarms sounded as a result of being triggered by sensors when the pipe broke. There was no fire in the building. Anyone who is scheduled for any court function in the Justice Complex at 120 Hooper Avenue should contact the Administrative Office of the Courts at 732-929-2042.

"But, we do expect the building will be reopen in the morning (Jan. 9) for regular business," Block said.